At Konoha's gates, a crowd had already gathered. Villagers packed tightly along both sides of the road, anxiously awaiting their heroes' return.
"Look! Lord Hokage and the others are back!"
Someone shouted excitedly. As the army of ninja appeared, the entire crowd immediately erupted. Screams, cheers, and laughter rose and fell one after another, blending together like a stirring symphony and forming a uniquely spectacular sight.
Hiruzen Sarutobi looked at the enthusiastic villagers before him, unable to suppress the pride swelling in his heart. He was proud of the village under his rule, and touched by the villagers' unity and warmth.
At that moment, Yūske saw so many people and could not help feeling a little embarrassed. He softly asked his teacher, "Teacher, can I get down and walk now?"
There was a trace of awkwardness in his voice. He still was not used to occasions like this.
Before Hiruzen Sarutobi could answer, however, the medical ninja beside them said anxiously, "No, Lady Tsunade specifically instructed us that you cannot walk yet. Please do not make things difficult for us!"
Hiruzen Sarutobi was not displeased at being interrupted. Instead, he looked at Yūske with a teasing expression, as if saying, "Yūske, your skin is just too thin."
Yūske sighed helplessly. He knew his condition and understood the medical ninja's concerns.
So he could only raise his head, look at Sarutobi's chin, and say gratefully, "Thank you, Sarutobi. You barely rested along the way because of me this time. You really worked hard."
"You're welcome, Lord Yūske!"
Sarutobi's voice carried a hint of embarrassment, but his movements did not pause in the slightest. He held Yūske tightly and followed Hiruzen Sarutobi's pace, walking forward with determination.
After teasing Yūske for once, Hiruzen Sarutobi finally reached the village gate. He immediately had